'No compelling case to change': AFL grand final start time remains despite 'mixed reviews'
AFL officials have opted to stick with the same afternoon time slot for the grand final, despite talk of changing it to later in the day.
Discussions had been ongoing over recent weeks regarding the future of the sport's landmark event and whether a twilight or night time fixture would work.
But in a statement from the AFL early on Sunday morning, it was confirmed the 2.30pm AEST first bounce had been locked in for a further two seasons, with the door left ajar for a possible change once the Tasmania Devils enter the competition.
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Brisbane Lions players celebrate after the 2025 grand final. Daniel Pockett/AFL Photos/via Getty Images
"Locking in the start time for the next two years would provide fans, clubs and stakeholders with certainty, while allowing the AFL to consider the broader competition ahead of the Tasmania Devils entering the AFL in 2028," the statement said.
"While there continues to be mixed views amongst fans, players, broadcasters, sponsors and everyone with a stake in the game, there is no compelling case for change now and the decision was that the AFL grand final should remain in its traditional afternoon timeslot for the next two seasons."
AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon believes the "clarity" will be crucial for all parties.
"We are already undertaking significant work on Tasmania entering the AFL in 2028, so it makes sense to lock in the grand final start time for the next two seasons and provide everyone with clarity," he said.
AFL boss Andrew Dillon. via Getty Images
"Our role is to deliver the best possible grand final experience - for the 100,000 fans at the MCG and the millions watching on broadcast - we remain committed to making it the biggest and best sporting event in the country.
"The season has started strongly, the footy has been exciting, crowds have been strong, and there is plenty to look forward to over the next month."
Brisbane have won the past two grand finals, thumping the Sydney Swans in 2024 before backing it up with a clinical win over Collingwood last year.
